Only cheap stuff is chinese but get it anyways. The absolute best bang for the buck is a Baofeng UV5R+. I recommend getting an aftermarket foldable antenna for it which will help with range, a magnetic antenna for your car with an N to SMA adapter, and at least 2 expanded batteries.
All of that and the testing fee to get into ham radio will cost you less than $100. The Technician license allows primarily for local communication as the range is limited while the General and Extra class licenses give worldwide range. A lot of clubs will allow you to take all 3 tests back to back during the same testing day if you pass the previous one, so if you pass technician you can test for general, and if you pass general you can test for extra.
Once you get into the general and extra class frequencies gear starts to cost close to the same as an used car.
Ok got it, so maybe a novice silly question. Can I get away with using a great big pine tree in my yard instead of a giant gantry antenna, ya know as to not "ruin the beauty of the neighborhood " ?
Baofeng uv5r or similar for about $25. While you' re at it go to hamexam.org and study for the tech license exam that costs $15. Once you get your license, save up for and learn about HF, but the Baofeng will let you access VHF and UHF repeaters.
Who here since 6th is now seriously considering HAM radio? Big fucking antenna on the house. Old school. I am. Sorry neighbors.
I would like to get into it some, any suggestions on a starter radio that won't break the bank?
I am starting to research, so I apologize I am not able to make recommendations. I would like to know as well!
It depends what you're looking to do in the hobby. Let me know what you're looking to accomplish and I may be able to suggest somethin
In general, shtf communication. I have worked cb for many years (former over the road truck driver) looking for something with more range.
Only cheap stuff is chinese but get it anyways. The absolute best bang for the buck is a Baofeng UV5R+. I recommend getting an aftermarket foldable antenna for it which will help with range, a magnetic antenna for your car with an N to SMA adapter, and at least 2 expanded batteries.
All of that and the testing fee to get into ham radio will cost you less than $100. The Technician license allows primarily for local communication as the range is limited while the General and Extra class licenses give worldwide range. A lot of clubs will allow you to take all 3 tests back to back during the same testing day if you pass the previous one, so if you pass technician you can test for general, and if you pass general you can test for extra.
Once you get into the general and extra class frequencies gear starts to cost close to the same as an used car.
Ok got it, so maybe a novice silly question. Can I get away with using a great big pine tree in my yard instead of a giant gantry antenna, ya know as to not "ruin the beauty of the neighborhood " ?
Check out 'Stealth Antennas' theres a lot of work that's been done to deal with HOA regs etc. Like hiding antennas in flagpoles, gutters, attics etc
Baofeng uv5r or similar for about $25. While you' re at it go to hamexam.org and study for the tech license exam that costs $15. Once you get your license, save up for and learn about HF, but the Baofeng will let you access VHF and UHF repeaters.
Hopefully more discussion could spring from this, I would love to see more talk about it.
I'm ordering an IC-7300, prolly tonight. Already ordered several ARRL handbooks to catch up on things.
Haven't worked on or operated any equipment since the '80s (MARS).
This should be fun...
Cool!!
Ive been saying this for years. My husband says I’m nuts, my dream seems to be coming closer everyday and he will give in.
Got in on the cheap baofengs last january. My dad ordered his 2 weeks after me and it still hasnt come in lol. I just listen though.